Pick Analysis: The Vikings add a bruising running back with the selection of Toby Gerhart. Although Adrian Peterson remains the workhorse, Gerhart has the versatile skill set to contribute as a rotational player in the backfield. With his toughness and all-around skills, Gerhart is an ideal fit.

Gerhart is a big, powerful ball carrier that has just enough speed to be a threat. He runs with a good pad level and consistently breaks through first contact and gets a lot of his yards after initial contact. He seems to get stronger as the game wears on and defenses visibly grow weary of trying to take him on in the latter parts of the game. He knows how to follow his blockers and is patient as he waits for the hole to open up. He is an effective receiver out of the backfield and, while he is not apt to be used as a downfield threat, he can move the chains in the short to intermediate passing game.

Strengths

Gerhart has impressive size and strength for the running back position to be productive in between the tackles. He has great balance on contact and consistently bounces off would-be tacklers. Finishes his runs and fights for extra yardage. Always plays with a ton of effort. Was extremely productive in college. Plays with a high level of intelligence.

Weaknesses

Gerhart does not possess the speed scouts like to see for the next level. Does not effectively attack the perimeter on outside runs or kick it into another gear to hit home runs up the middle. Attempts to get downhill in a hurry, but burst through the hole is just adequate.